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University networks to remain tuneless for now
Apr 2nd, 2024
Kevin Macnaughton working at computer terminal

Off-pitch crooners rejoice: the University of Windsor is not instituting a digital authentication system requiring users to sing a melodic password.

An article in yesterday’s DailyNews announcing the Musical Password System was an April Fool’s prank dreamed up by Information Technology Services with an assist from choirs master Bruce Kotowich.

“Part of me just loves the idea of people annoying each other with singing at their desks,” says Marcin Pulcer, associate vice-president, IT Services.

The hoax did net a few fish, says Alisa Giroux-Souilliere, co-ordinator of change management and communication in IT Services.

“Eleven people signed up for the melody maker vocal coaching workshop,” she says. “They all received an automated response that said ‘We hope you got a laugh this April Fool’s Day!’”

One who was fooled was Karen Momotiuk, senior development office for the Faculty of Nursing.

“I told my family about the new policy, and the guy next to me on the train, too,” she says, chagrined.

For her part, communications co-ordinator Susan McKee, an enthusiastic chorister herself, was disappointed to learn it was a prank.

“You totally got me with the musical password story!” she wrote to DailyNews. “Here I was thinking how brilliant Marcin Pulcer is!”

New cybersecurity system requires users to sing for access
Apr 1st, 2024
Kevin Macnaughton singing into computer mic

In a move to protect institutional and user data, the University of Windsor has launched a new cybersecurity measure: the Musical Password System (MPS). This novel approach to digital authentication requires users to sing a melody in addition to entering their password and multifactor authentication information.

Developed by Information Technology Services, the MPS aims at improving security through the use of personalized melodies, thereby making the login process not only more secure but also more enjoyable for users.

“The introduction of the Musical Password System is a significant step towards making our digital spaces more secure in an enjoyable and innovative manner,” says Marcin Pulcer, assistant vice-president, IT Services. “We believe this new system will transform the user experience, making every login more enjoyable for yourself and others near your desk.”

Considering the increasing costs associated with cybersecurity incidents, the introduction of the MPS is timely.

“Cybersecurity incidents are not only disruptive but also expensive. Initiatives like the MPS are crucial in preventing us from paying ransoms and going Baroque,” Pulcer says, highlighting the financial and cultural value of innovative security measures.

Adding a musical perspective to the discussion, music professor and choirs director Bruce Kotowich says the system beautifully marries the science of security with the art of music: “It’s fascinating to see how melodies can play a role in strengthening our digital defenses while making the process more engaging and personal for users.”

As the University of Windsor takes the lead in this unique security measure, it sets a new benchmark for institutions worldwide, showcasing the potential of integrating arts and technology to create more secure and enjoyable digital experiences.

Dr. Kotowich is offering free vocal coaching to prepare for the transition. Sign up for an in-person or online melody maker workshop.

Mandatory training to strengthen cybersecurity measures
Mar 8th, 2024
man working on computer

In a bid to fortify its digital defenses, the University of Windsor has mandated cybersecurity training for all employees as outlined in the Cybersecurity Action Plan. This move comes in response to the escalating and persistent threats in the cyber landscape and aligns with best practices at other institutions.

“Cybersecurity is not just an IT issue, but a risk that affects every individual and department in our institution,” says Marcin Pulcer, associate vice-president, Information Technology Services. “This training is a critical step in ensuring that we are all equipped with the knowledge to protect ourselves and the University from cyber threats.”

The training is a valuable opportunity to learn how to safeguard oneself and share in the responsibility of protecting the University from cyberattacks. With cybercrime now the third-largest economy globally, the threat is imminent. In 2022, the global cost of cybercrime was a staggering $8.44 trillion US, and it’s anticipated to skyrocket to over $23 trillion by 2027.

The web-based cybersecurity training consists of two sections: training modules and a quiz that tests the knowledge and understanding of fundamental cybersecurity practices. IT Services will soon email each employee to provide more information and access to the training.

The cybersecurity training needs to be completed by faculty members, post-doctoral fellows, professor adjuncts, sessional instructors, staff, and student employees.

The University remains committed to protecting its technology and data, and this initiative is a testament to that commitment, says Pulcer: “Our collective effort to take cybersecurity precautions will significantly contribute to the University’s resilience against cyber threats.”

Maintenance downtime to restrict access to T4s
Mar 8th, 2024
T4 slips

Scheduled maintenance will take the MyUWinfo employee portal, which holds employee T4 slips, offline from 9:30 p.m. tonight until 1 p.m. Saturday, March 9.

The downtime is necessary to move UWindsor applications to a new server, enhancing security. The maintenance is scheduled for the weekend to minimize disruption. Other applications such as VIP – all modules, My Attendance, Required Training Site, and Flexible Work Arrangement Request Application will be offline during maintenance.

Brightspace, UWinsite Student, eCV, and eGAS will remain online, but the data integration for those applications will be restored on Monday.

Employees are advised to plan accordingly due to the unavailability of T4s during this period. More information about the maintenance can be found on the IT Services website.

Couple finds compatibility on campus
Feb 14th, 2024
Kevin Macnaughton and Michelle Fitzgerald

Her husband is living proof that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, says Michelle Fitzgerald (BA 1999).

Exchange program administrator in the International Student Centre, this spring she will celebrate 29 years together with Kevin Macnaughton (BSc 1998), team leader for security in Information Technology Services.

The two met in their first year of study at the University of Windsor, living in adjacent suites in Tecumseh Hall, which provided apartment-style residences on Mill Street west of Huron Church Road.

Macnaughton says what first drew them together was simple: “She likes to cook; I like to eat.”

In fact, Fitzgerald would cook with the door open so the delicious aromas would travel down the hallway.

“Kevin showed up one day and asked me to make a lasagna, but I didn’t have the right pan to make one,” says Fitzgerald. “A week later, he came by and presented me with a pan.”

The two had a few courses together, including an 8:30 a.m. class Macnaughton would prefer to sleep through. “She would literally come into my room and wake me up to walk to class,” he recalls.

They transitioned from friends to couple toward the end of their first year and have pretty much been on campus ever since, considering themselves fortunate to work for the institution where they first found love.

“Both of us have good jobs in fields that we love,” Macnaughton says. “Part of what makes our life so good is that it revolves around the University. We can see the results of our work in the students and graduates.”

Fitzgerald interjects: “What more can you ask for than a purposeful life?”

She offers this advice for those exploring new relationships on St. Valentine’s Day: “You need to be open to trying new things. Sometimes your new thing can become your partner’s new thing, but their new thing doesn’t have to be your new thing every time.”